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Question 601

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025• English Comprehension• English Comprehension

Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word: OBFUSCATION

  1. AOption (a)

    Explanation

  2. BOption (b)

    Clarity

  3. COption (c)

    Transparency

  4. DOption (d)

    Confusion

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Confusion

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Confusion.

Key Points

  • The word "Obfuscation" means the action of making something obscure, unclear, or difficult to understand. (जटिलता या अस्पष्टता पैदा करना)
  • Example: The lawyer’s deliberate obfuscation of the facts confused the jury.
  • "Confusion" refers to a state of being bewildered or unclear in one’s mind about something. (भ्रम)
  • Example: The obfuscation caused confusion among the audience, who couldn’t follow the speaker’s argument.
  • Hence, the closest synonym for 'obfuscation' is 'confusion'.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Confusion.

Additional Information

Here are the other options explained along with their Hindi meanings and example sentences:

  • Explanation (व्याख्या): A detailed description or clarification of something.
  • Example: The teacher’s explanation of the concept helped the students understand the topic better.
  • Clarity (स्पष्टता): The quality of being clear and easy to understand.
  • Example: The clarity of her speech made the complex topic easy to grasp.
  • Transparency (पारदर्शिता): The state of being open, honest, and clear, without hidden agendas.
  • Example: The company’s transparency in financial dealings earned the trust of its stakeholders.

Question 602

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025• English Comprehension• English Comprehension

Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word. Vociferous

  1. AOption (a)

    Noisy

  2. BOption (b)

    Loud

  3. COption (c)

    Silent

  4. DOption (d)

    Boisterous

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Silent

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Silent.

Key Points

  • The word "Vociferous" means expressing opinions loudly and forcefully; it is associated with noise and being outspoken. (प्रबल और जोरदार)
  • Example: The vociferous protests outside the government building drew attention from the media.
  • "Silent" refers to being quiet, not making noise, or being free from loud sounds or disturbances. (मौन)
  • Example: The library was silent, with only the faint sound of pages turning.
  • Hence, we can infer that the opposite of 'Vociferous' is 'Silent'.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Silent.

Additional Information

Here are the other options explained along with their Hindi meanings and example sentences:

  • Noisy (शोरगुल): Full of loud sounds or activity.
  • Example: The marketplace was noisy, filled with vendors shouting their prices.
  • Loud (जोर से): Producing a lot of sound; not quiet.
  • Example: She spoke in a loud voice to address the large audience.
  • Boisterous (उत्साही और शोरगुल): Rough, noisy, and full of energy.
  • Example: The boisterous crowd cheered loudly for their team.

Question 603

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025• English Comprehension• English Comprehension

Choose the correct meaning of idiom: Flash in the pan

  1. AOption (a)

    A bright idea

  2. BOption (b)

    A sudden success that fails to last

  3. COption (c)

    A criminal plan

  4. DOption (d)

    A methodical worker

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

A sudden success that fails to last

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Option 2 i.e. A sudden success that fails to last.

Key Points

  • The idiom "Flash in the pan" means a sudden success or event that initially seems promising but fails to sustain or deliver long-term success. (क्षणिक सफलता जो स्थायी न हो)
  • Example: The singer's debut hit was just a flash in the pan, as she failed to produce any more successful songs.
  • "Flash in the pan" (क्षणिक चमक) indicates something that sparks attention briefly but fades away quickly without lasting impact.
  • Example: The startup gained a lot of attention initially, but it turned out to be a flash in the pan due to poor management.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Option 2.

Additional Information

Here are the other options explained along with their Hindi meanings and example sentences:

  • Option 1: A bright idea (उज्ज्वल विचार): Refers to an innovative or brilliant thought.
  • Example: She came up with a bright idea to solve the company’s financial issues.
  • Option 3: A criminal plan (अपराधिक योजना): Refers to a scheme or plot intended for illegal activities.
  • Example: The detective uncovered a criminal plan to smuggle goods across the border.
  • Option 4: A methodical worker (सुव्यवस्थित कार्यकर्ता): Describes someone who works systematically and in an organized manner.
  • Example: He is a methodical worker who always ensures that every detail is perfect.

Question 604

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025• English Comprehension• English Comprehension

Choose the correct meaning of idiom: To bite one's thumb at someone

  1. AOption (a)

    To mock one's own pride

  2. BOption (b)

    To insult someone contemptuously

  3. COption (c)

    To offer false flattery

  4. DOption (d)

    To express internal fear

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

To insult someone contemptuously

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Option 2 i.e. "To insult someone contemptuously".

Key Points

  • The idiom "To bite one's thumb at someone" means to insult someone in a contemptuous and disrespectful way. (किसी का अपमान करना या तिरस्कारपूर्वक व्यवहार करना)
  • Example: In Shakespeare’s play "Romeo and Juliet," Sampson bites his thumb at the Montagues, which is a gesture of insult.
  • In English literature and historical context, this gesture was considered highly offensive and provocative during the Elizabethan era.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Option 2.

Additional Information

Here are the other options explained along with their Hindi meanings and example sentences:

  • Option 1: To mock one’s own pride (अपने गर्व का मजाक बनाना): This phrase suggests someone ridiculing their own sense of pride or self-esteem, but it is not related to the idiom in question.
  • Example: He mocked his own pride by laughing at his achievements.
  • Option 3: To offer false flattery (झूठी चापलूसी करना): This phrase means praising someone insincerely with ulterior motives.
  • Example: She offered false flattery to her boss to get a promotion.
  • Option 4: To express internal fear (आंतरिक भय प्रकट करना): This phrase refers to showing one’s hidden fears, but it is unrelated to the idiom.
  • Example: Despite his brave face, his trembling hands expressed his internal fear.

Question 605

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025• English Comprehension• English Comprehension

Which spelling is correct for a word meaning 'calm and peaceful'?

  1. AOption (a)

    Serine

  2. BOption (b)

    Serenne

  3. COption (c)

    Serene

  4. DOption (d)

    Sereen

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Serene

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is option 3.

Key Points

The correct spelling for the word meaning 'calm and peaceful' is 'Serene'.

  • 'Serene' is an adjective that means calm, peaceful, and untroubled. (शांत और सौम्य)
  • For example -
  • The serene beauty of the lake made it a popular spot for meditation and relaxation.

Therefore, the correct answer is 'Serene'.

Additional Information

Explanation of the other options:

  • 1) Serine - Incorrect spelling; also, it refers to an amino acid, not related to the meaning of 'calm and peaceful'.
  • 2) Serenne - Incorrect spelling.
  • 4) Sereen - Incorrect spelling.

Question 606

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025• English Comprehension• English Comprehension

Choose the correct spelling for a word meaning 'basic or fundamental'.

  1. AOption (a)

    Rudimentry

  2. BOption (b)

    Rudimentary

  3. COption (c)

    Rudementary

  4. DOption (d)

    Rudamentary

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Rudimentary

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is option 2.

Key Points

The correct spelling for the word meaning 'basic or fundamental' is 'Rudimentary'.

  • Definition: 'Rudimentary' is an adjective that means involving or limited to basic principles; or in the early stages of development. (मूलभूत)
  • For Example -
  • He has only a rudimentary knowledge of the subject.

Additional Information

Incorrect spellings and their explanations:

  • Rudimentry: This spelling is incorrect as it omits the letter 'a' needed for proper formation.
  • Rudementary: Incorrect due to the use of 'e' instead of 'i'.
  • Rudamentary: Incorrect due to the use of 'a' instead of 'i'.

Question 607

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025• English Comprehension• English Comprehension

Choose the correct one-word substitute for: 'Cancellation of a penalty or debt.'

  1. AOption (a)

    Acquittal

  2. BOption (b)

    Remission

  3. COption (c)

    Reprieve

  4. DOption (d)

    Pardon

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Remission

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Remission.

Key Points

  • The word "Remission" refers to the cancellation of a penalty, debt, or an obligation. It implies forgiveness, reduction, or suspension of punishment. (दंड या ऋण से मुक्ति)
  • Example: The court granted a remission of the fine due to the defendant's financial condition.
  • Remission is the correct substitute for the given phrase "cancellation of a penalty or debt" as it perfectly aligns with the meaning. (दंड या ऋण को माफ करना)
  • Example: The government announced a remission of taxes for small businesses during the economic crisis.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Remission.

Additional Information

Here are the other options explained along with their Hindi meanings and example sentences:

  • Acquittal (दोषमुक्ति): A judgment or verdict that a person is not guilty of the crime they were charged with.
  • Example: The defendant's acquittal brought relief to his family.
  • Reprieve (स्थगन): A temporary delay in the execution of a punishment, especially a death sentence.
  • Example: The prisoner was granted a reprieve just hours before the execution.
  • Pardon (क्षमादान): Official forgiveness for an offense or crime, often granted by a head of state or government.
  • Example: The president issued a pardon to the activist who had been wrongfully convicted.

Question 608

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025• English Comprehension• English Comprehension

Choose the correct one-word substitute for: 'The use of trickery to achieve a political or financial goal'.

  1. AOption (a)

    Diplomacy

  2. BOption (b)

    Chicanery

  3. COption (c)

    Bribery

  4. DOption (d)

    Propaganda

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Chicanery

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Chicanery.

Key Points

  • The word "Chicanery" refers to the use of trickery or deception to achieve a political, financial, or legal purpose. (कपट / छल)
  • Example: The politician's chicanery was exposed during the investigation into the financial scandal.
  • "Trickery" means the practice of deceiving or cheating someone, often involving clever but dishonest tactics. (धोखा)
  • Example: The con artist relied on trickery to swindle people out of their money.
  • Hence, the word 'Chicanery' perfectly fits the definition of "The use of trickery to achieve a political or financial goal."

Therefore, the correct answer is: Chicanery.

Additional Information

Here are the other options explained along with their Hindi meanings and example sentences:

  • Diplomacy (राजनय): The art of negotiating or managing international relations in a tactful or strategic manner.
  • Example: His diplomacy helped resolve the conflict between the two nations peacefully.
  • Bribery (घूसखोरी): The act of offering money or favors to influence someone's decisions or actions unlawfully.
  • Example: The official was arrested for accepting bribery to pass illegal permits.
  • Propaganda (प्रचार): Information, especially biased or misleading, used to promote a political cause or viewpoint.
  • Example: During the election, the party used propaganda to influence public opinion.

Question 609

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025• English Comprehension• English Comprehension

In the given passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage intently and choose the most appropriate option to fill in each blank:

Postcolonial infrastructures often inhabit a schizochronic condition—a simultaneity of obsolescence and futurity. Flyovers half-finished, railway stations calcified mid-renovation, and electric grids oscillating between blackout and surplus do not signify simple malfunction. Rather, they manifest a (1) ____ temporality in which the present is neither a continuity of the past nor a stable projection of the future. These infrastructures function not as inert utilities but as affective indexes of temporal rupture. Modernity, once telegraphed through asphalt and concrete, now flickers within these arrested developments—gestures of progress suspended in bureaucratic amber. Here, functionality is beside the point. What matters is the performative (2) ____ of development: roads that signify mobility even when impassable, metros that symbolize futurity even when immobile. In this schema, infrastructure ceases to be an engineering problem and becomes a narrative technology—a spatial discourse that (3) ____ the nation-state’s promises into sedimented form. Bridges-to-be and always-rebuilding airports constitute not failure, but continuity: the continual renewal of unfinished intention. Such spatial artifacts require a recalibrated hermeneutics. To read them literally is to miss their symbolic resonance. Their disrepair is not decay but (4) ____: a visual vocabulary of state temporality, in which incompletion is the political idiom of continuity. This is the temporal grammar of anticipation without arrival. Thus, the postcolonial built environment articulates not stasis, but (5) ____—a condition where motion exists without direction, and progress is simulated through perpetual incompletion.

What should come in the place of blank number (1)?

  1. AOption (a)

    stagnant

  2. BOption (b)

    regressive

  3. COption (c)

    disjunctive

  4. DOption (d)

    sovereign

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

disjunctive

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'disjunctive'.

 

Key Points

  • The passage emphasizes a fractured temporality where the present is neither a continuation of the past nor a stable projection of the future.
  • The word should capture rupture, discontinuity, and simultaneity of obsolescence and futurity.
  • "Disjunctive" fits perfectly as it denotes a break or lack of continuity, aligning with the schizochronic condition described.
  • Other options ("stagnant", "regressive", "sovereign") do not convey the temporal rupture central to the passage.

Therefore, the correct answer is 'Option 3'.

 

Complete Passage: Postcolonial infrastructures often inhabit a schizochronic condition—a simultaneity of obsolescence and futurity. Flyovers half-finished, railway stations calcified mid-renovation, and electric grids oscillating between blackout and surplus do not signify simple malfunction. Rather, they manifest a 1. disjunctive temporality in which the present is neither a continuity of the past nor a stable projection of the future. These infrastructures function not as inert utilities but as affective indexes of temporal rupture...

 

Additional Information

  • Stagnant: implies stillness or lack of movement, which does not capture the fractured temporality.
  • Regressive: suggests backward movement, but the passage emphasizes rupture rather than reversal.
  • Sovereign: relates to authority or independence, irrelevant to the temporal condition described.

Question 610

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025• English Comprehension• English Comprehension

In the given passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage intently and choose the most appropriate option to fill in each blank:

Postcolonial infrastructures often inhabit a schizochronic condition—a simultaneity of obsolescence and futurity. Flyovers half-finished, railway stations calcified mid-renovation, and electric grids oscillating between blackout and surplus do not signify simple malfunction. Rather, they manifest a (1) ____ temporality in which the present is neither a continuity of the past nor a stable projection of the future. These infrastructures function not as inert utilities but as affective indexes of temporal rupture. Modernity, once telegraphed through asphalt and concrete, now flickers within these arrested developments—gestures of progress suspended in bureaucratic amber. Here, functionality is beside the point. What matters is the performative (2) ____ of development: roads that signify mobility even when impassable, metros that symbolize futurity even when immobile. In this schema, infrastructure ceases to be an engineering problem and becomes a narrative technology—a spatial discourse that (3) ____ the nation-state’s promises into sedimented form. Bridges-to-be and always-rebuilding airports constitute not failure, but continuity: the continual renewal of unfinished intention. Such spatial artifacts require a recalibrated hermeneutics. To read them literally is to miss their symbolic resonance. Their disrepair is not decay but (4) ____: a visual vocabulary of state temporality, in which incompletion is the political idiom of continuity. This is the temporal grammar of anticipation without arrival. Thus, the postcolonial built environment articulates not stasis, but (5) ____—a condition where motion exists without direction, and progress is simulated through perpetual incompletion.

What should come in the place of blank number (2)?

  1. AOption (a)

    collapse

  2. BOption (b)

    semiotics

  3. COption (c)

    hesitation

  4. DOption (d)

    repair

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

semiotics

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'semiotics'.

 

Key Points

  • The passage emphasizes that functionality is not the main concern; instead, the focus is on the symbolic meaning of development.
  • The word should capture the idea of signs and symbols representing progress, even when infrastructure is non-functional.
  • "Semiotics" fits perfectly as it refers to the study of signs and symbols, aligning with roads and metros serving as symbolic gestures of futurity.
  • Other options ("collapse", "hesitation", "repair") describe physical states or psychological delay, which do not match the symbolic focus of the passage.

Therefore, the correct answer is 'Option 2'.

 

Complete Passage: Here, functionality is beside the point. What matters is the performative 2. semiotics of development: roads that signify mobility even when impassable, metros that symbolize futurity even when immobile.

 

Additional Information

  • Collapse: implies breakdown or destruction, which does not fit the symbolic meaning of infrastructure.
  • Hesitation: suggests indecision, irrelevant to the symbolic discourse of development.
  • Repair: refers to fixing something physically, not to the symbolic or performative aspect highlighted in the passage.